Handsomely structured, with fine-grained tannins, a full body and vibrant acidity behind impressive black cherry, blackcurrant, savory cedar and wet stone flavors. Offers complexity, balance, personality and an ability to age and improve. Drink or hold. ~95 James Suckling

Pouring a jewel-like ruby color, the 2021 Pinot Noir Fort Ross Vineyard is pretty and inviting on the nose with aromas of candied roses, fresh red cherries, wild strawberries, rocky earth, and fresh herbs. I like the clarity of this wine a lot, and it has a more linear feel, offering fine tannins and a clean, fresh acidity. It floats off the palate and closes with notes of orange peel. It’s a very elegant wine to enjoy over the coming 12 or 15 years. ~94 Jeb Dunnuck

From Fort Ross Vineyard, sitting between 365 and 518 metres, 1.6 kilometres from the Pacific Ocean in Sonoma County. Winemaker Matt Sands, who produces lovely, rich, structured Napa Cabernet Sauvignons for several labels under the New Frontier Wine Co portfolio, is wading into new territory with Pinot-making. His initial foray reveals a heavier hand. In time, there is no question that he’ll find a lighter touch, as evidenced by this Fort Ross Pinot, which was my favourite in his lineup of 2021 Pinot Noirs. It balances power and richness with intense salinity and is braced by a firm backbone of acidity. Wild herbs laced with ocean spray and cedarwood notes mingle with black cherry and blackberry. Angular, pointed tannins have a firm grip on the palate, and the finish is marked by savoury smoked cedar and bacon fat. Pinot Noir clone 777 was aged 12 months in 50% new French oak. ~94 Decanter